Gamma MK2 Integrated Hotfire Anomaly

-January 3rd, 2025-

On January 3rd, 2025, we hotfired our Gamma MK2 vehicle ahead of flight. Unfortunately, due to an error in the Estes C6-5 motor, the hotfire was unsuccessful. This error led to the entire contents of the motor being blown out both sides of the motor. Most of it was dumped out the top part, or nozzle area, leading to an extreme force being exerted on the vehicle. This pushed down on the pad, melting the pad legs and breaking the blast plate holder. In addition to pad damage, the vehicle also suffered immense damage. The entirety of the inside of the vehicle was charred black, and due to the vehicle being pushed down with great force, the tube portion of the vehicle was bent. In addition to this, the extreme heat being exerted out of the bottom part led to heat damage, further making it impossible to fly it in this condition. It is currently unknown what will happen to the vehicle.

UPDATE 1/6:

We have made repairs to the vehicle and have completed assembly of the vehicle. It could fly as soon as 1/7.